Plumtree Bans Use of Illegally Extracted Sand and Stone Aggregates

By Lizwe Ncube

PLUMTREE, Zimbabwe — Plumtree Town Council has banned the use of illegally extracted natural stone and sand aggregates at all civil works sites within the town, with the new directive set to take effect on October 16, 2026.

In a public notice dated October 13, 2026, the council said the ban was aimed at curbing environmental degradation caused by the extraction of natural aggregates and promoting orderly, sustainable urban development.

The directive, adopted at an ordinary full council meeting held on September 1, 2026, prohibits the use of illegally sourced stone aggregates and extends to pit sand, gravel filler and river sand extracted from undesignated sites or without valid permits from the relevant authorities.

Council said the decision followed an assessment of the availability of suitable aggregates from reputable local suppliers, adding that the move was intended to preserve Plumtree's character, visual appeal and environmental standards.

Under the new measures, all extractors and transporters of natural aggregates will be required to obtain extraction and transportation permits from the local authority before accessing approved sites.

Contractors undertaking civil works will also be required to produce receipts from accredited suppliers and evidence that the materials used were sourced from designated extraction sites.

The council warned that aggregates obtained from unlicensed suppliers or unauthorised locations would be confiscated, while offenders could face fines and other penalties in accordance with council by-laws and statutory regulations.

The notice cited the Plumtree Town Environment and Natural Conservation By-laws under Statutory Instrument 102 of 2015, alongside Environmental Management regulations, as the legal framework supporting the restrictions.

Council said the measures were necessary to address growing concerns over environmental damage associated with the uncontrolled extraction of sand and natural stone.

The directive also seeks to ensure that construction and infrastructure development within the border town comply with environmental protection requirements.